Laura Curtis: Candidate Profile

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Note: Answers provided have not been edited for grammar, misspellings or typos. In some instances, candidate claims that could not be immediately verified have been omitted. Jump to:BioQA Bio City: North AuroraWebsite: Candidate did not respond.Office sought: North Aurora Village Board Age: 42Family: Daughter Madeline, 14 Son, Ian, 12 Husband JasonOccupation: Real Estate AppraiserEducation: Candidate did not respond.Civic involvement: Candidate did not respond.Elected offices held: North Aurora Village TrusteeQuestions Answers What makes you the best candidate for the job?As a 13 year resident of the village I have a desire to maintain and create a prosperous and desirable community for my family and neighbors. As a current trustee, I have a unique view to our future potential and opportunities and would like to continue to help guide us forward on the path to progress and opportunity which I have been a part of helping to develop over these past four years through our newly created Strategic and Comprehensive plans.What is your opinion of your community's present level of local sales and property taxes? Is the tax just right, too low or too high? Explain.I believe that our current rates are appropriate. I am aware of the burden of high taxation in Illinois and am always aware that there are real financial consequences to our residents with every vote I cast in favor or against tax increases. As a trustee, I have consistently questioned our need to take the full levy each year. Our village has been diligent in balancing true needs for infrastructure and administration with our tax levies. Village taxes make up a very small part of the overall property tax bill, however I do not take for granted what we ask of our residents. I feel we do a good job balancing taxes with the services we provide to our residents.Rate the efficiency of your town's police and fire coverage. Are the departments well prepared for the next decade? What, if anything, should be changed? Do you have specific public safety concerns?I would give our police and fire departments a 10. Our newly built police and fire stations feature the latest technology and equipment. Our police officers are actively involved in our community thru such programs as the PACT (Police and Citizens Together)and National Night Out. Our partnership with Aurora's 911 dispatch means residents never need to wait long to be attended to in an emergency, while our fire department is headed by our new fire chief who is second to none in his commitment to the community. It is my belief that we are appropriately positioned for the next decade.Where, if anywhere, could the current budget be trimmed, and conversely, are there areas the budget does not give enough money to?The village currently runs a very lean operation. Each year the budget is scrutinized to see where, if any savings can be realized. Due to the diligence of staff and the board, our current financial position is strong and we were rewarded by receiving an upgrade from AA to AA+ from Standard and Poor for the Village's Outstanding Bond Rating.What's one good idea you have to better the community that no one is talking about yet?I believe we should relocate the East fire station to a location on Rt. 31 across from the police station. This would free our a large river view parcel for development after the removal of the Activity Center as well as enhance the appearance of a portion of Rt. 31.What other issues, if any, are important to you as a candidate for this office?Development of our riverfront, continuation of our economic development and sound fiscal management, welcoming of new businesses and industries, follow thru on the villages comprehensive and strategic plans, removal and replacement of ash trees, continuing our roads programs, and relocating Friday Night Spot after the demolition of the Activity Center.Please name one current leader who most inspires you.Bruce RaunerWhat's the biggest lesson you learned at home growing up?You cant go wrong doing the right thing.If life gave you one do-over, what would you spend it on?I would have enjoyed my children more when they were babies. They grow up too fast.What was your favorite subject in school and how did it help you in later life?American History Knowing the founding of our country and the sacrifices that were made have impressed upon me the weight of the duty I owe.If you could give your children only one piece of advice, what would it be?Love God and read your Bible - it's the instruction manual for living a truly successful and joyous life.